Talking Business with Lisa Clarken: Resources for start ups
A NEW year, a new start.
For those of you who long to be your own boss and start your very own business I have compiled a list of local resources to help you get started. From my own personal experience I would advise to invest time and effort in market research. You may believe that you have the best product or idea in the world. You will need clients or customers who want your product or service for your business to succeed. Be sure that you are meeting an actual need or want in the market place.
People in general are very giving of their time and want you to succeed. Please draw on others experiences to help you avoid mistakes. Make phone calls, send emails and look for five minutes of someone’s time.
Network
The networking groups I would recommend locally are the Chamber of Commerce, BNI, Network Ireland and any organised event for your area of business. People recommend people.
Local Enterprise Office (LEO)
Get in touch with your LEO. They are so helpful and will have a sit down with you to see where they can help, guide and advise you. There are resources available to start ups so access them. They also run courses and networking events.
Online trading voucher scheme
More and more we are seeing the move to online trading and promotion. Most of us have smart phones in our pockets so there is unbelievable potential to access clients and customers both within Ireland and abroad.
There is a grant of up to €2,500 available. Contact your local LEO office for more information. They also run information evenings on the scheme.
Local bank
The different banks are another resource to avail of. They often run events and offer networking opportunities. The Bank of Ireland ran a succession of Enterprise Town events in 2018 where businesses could showcase their business to the local community.
GMIT iHub – where great business ideas take off
Right on our own doorsteps, the iHub at GMIT Castlebar is Mayo’s leading incubator that provides high potential entrepreneurs and innovative start-ups with the business skills, networks, space and supports necessary to navigate the business start-up process from concept to successful commercialisation.
New Frontiers is for both male and female entrepreneurs and is run from GMIT. This is an Enterprise Ireland initiative and has enjoyed huge success since 2012. More details on www.newfrontiers.ie.
EMPOWER Start is for females with an early stage idea or in business less than one year. This free programme is delivered part-time with GMIT.
EMPOWER Growth is focused on women who are already in business (2 years +) and are now looking to scale and grow by providing support from peers, mentors and role models. More details are available on www.empowerher.ie.
Please feel free to send me a business advice question to lisa@streamlineconsulting.ie and I will cover the topic here.
Lisa Clarken B.Comm, MBS FS, ACCA
Streamline Consulting – Business Efficiency Solutions
(087) 2226223
* Read Talking Business with Lisa Clarken every Tuesday in our print edition